During
remarks presented at the founding reception, Caucus co-chair
Senator Allen stated:"We kick this STC off with a strong start." In a
reference to the PRC's continued blocking of Taiwan's
participation in the WHO, he added: "Unfortunately there
are those who are paranoid and do not let Taiwan into the WHO
despite the recent SARS situation." He concluded:
"Taiwan is a vibrant and freedom loving society and will
continue to grow. Taiwan must continue to be a land of free
people. And we must continue to strengthen these ties.
Together our countries stand for freedom and justice."

Co-chair
Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD) added: "It is an honor for me
to co-chair this new Senate Taiwan Caucus. It is exciting to
see the blossoming of democracy in Taiwan. It is inspiring to
see that Taiwan has become a model around the world of an
democratic and economic power. The world is a better place
because what you have done with Taiwan." He concluded his
remarks with saying that: "This relationship between the
US and Taiwan will continue to grow."

Caucus
founding member Senator Jay Rockefeller (D-WV) closed the
kick-off reception by stating: "Taiwan is a special case
that needs to have a Caucus. Taiwan is a major player in the
world today - a miracle that we have watched in awe. And I am
proud to be a founding member of this caucus. Let's move
forward and work towards solving problems."

On
April 10, 2002, 85 House members formed the House
Congressional Taiwan Caucus. It currently boasts a membership
of 123 members, and has been rated as the fastest growing
caucus in the U.S. Congress.

Ming-chi
Wu, Ph.D. President of FAPA states: "The House Caucus
proved to be a very effective instrument to boost the
visibility of Taiwan on Capitol Hill. We at FAPA have equal
high expectations of the effectiveness of the Senate Taiwan
Caucus."

Wu
continues: "From the Taiwan Relations Act in 1979 to the
present, Congress has been very supportive of Taiwan. However,
the establishment of the Senate Taiwan Caucus provides another
vital communication channel that will allow the aspirations of
the Taiwanese people to have an even clearer, louder
voice."